The best waterproof headphones are designed specifically for swimming, with waterproof designs that are fully optimized for underwater audio. While many sports headphones are marketed as waterproof against varied degrees, there is more to think about if you want your swim soundtrack with a playlist of motivation or educational podcasts.

For one thing, you have to think about where any music will be played. Your cellphone cannot be waterproof or comfortable to carry while swimming. At the same time, the wireless communication protocol like Bluetooth tends to fight under water.

This means that, while it is possible to find an independent waterproof MP3 player, most successful swimmingphones tend to integrate MP3 players and internal storage into one unit to allow you to bring your songs into the pool.

Great exceptions are Zygo Solo – our choice for the best waterproof earbuds in 2021 – which uses the FM transmitter to drain audio from your mobile instead.

Some work like conventional in-ear headphones, while others use bone conduction technology to transmit sound without blocking your ear canal so you can still hear Ambient’s voice. We have collected a mixture of both, so you can choose the style that suits your preferences.